Miscellaneous Courses

Computer Science & Applications                                                                  Course #8344

One semester = 1/2 credit

This course is an introduction to computer science and applications intended to “prepare young learners to become computational thinkers who understand how today's digital tools can help solve tomorrow's problems.” (ISTE, 2018). CS & A will include at least 50% computer science principles and computational thinking. The balance of the course will integrate skills in digital and media literacy and digital citizenship.

*Satisfies the Computer Science and Application requirement.

 NOTE: This class may be offered Zero period based upon enrollment numbers for JUNIOR/SENIOR students only. The course number for students interested in Zero period are 8355

Edgenuity Credit Recovery                                                                Course #7701-7702     

1/2 credit (option for additional credits)                                                                                                        

Prerequisite: Failure of a course

The primary purpose of this computer-based program is to give students a chance to recover credits needed to graduate. This course can be taken as part of a student’s minimum load or in addition to their regular schedule.

NOTE: This class may be offered Zero period based upon enrollment numbers for JUNIOR/SENIOR students only. The course numbers for students interested in Zero period are 7015-7016

Foundations in Art                                                                                   Course #6107-6108     

Semester = 1/2 credit

Fee: $10.00 lab fee

Foundations in Art is a survey Course designed to give students a broad exposure to the fine arts. Students will learn and apply the elements and principles of art as they create. Various media will be used to explore art making and its relationship to our history and various cultures. Critical thinking will be used to assess and analyze the merits of personal work as well as that of others.

Note: This semester class will ONLY count as a general elective/humanities, it is NOT a Pre-Requisite to any other offered art course.

Guitar-Beginning                                                                                        Course #6718     

1/2 credit = semester    

Fee: $10.00 per semester

Prerequisite:  Students must supply their own 6-String classical, acoustic, or electric guitar in good working condition in the first week of class.

This semester course is designed for students with no previous guitar experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar on a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills, and techniques required to become a successful musician. Areas of concentration include correct posture, note reading, aural skills, flat picking, singing songs, rhythmic patterns, chord study, bass playing, finger picking styles, melody construction, musical forms, tablature notation, improvisation, and performing experiences.

Guitar- Intermediate                                                                                       Course #6720   

1/2 credit = semester

Fee: $10.00

Prerequisite: Beginning Guitar or instructors' approval. Students must supply their own 6-String classical, acoustic, or electric guitar in good working condition in the first week of class.

This semester course is designed for students with intermediate experience on guitar. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar on a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills, and techniques required to become a successful musician. Areas of concentration include correct posture.

Health                                                                                                   Course # 5311

One semester = 0.5 credit

This course is a one semester course which covers the following topics: body function; physical and emotional development; drugs, alcohol, and tobacco; disease and disorders; fitness and exercise; nutrition; consumer health, safety, first aid, and emergency care; family health, growth and development; environmental health and related fields; community health; health careers; human sexuality and HIV/AIDS.**Topics related to human sexuality and HIV/AIDS education are provided through the Sexuality, Health and Responsibility Education (S.H.A.R.E.) program - parent permission required.

History Through Film – Elective                                                                        Course #4257

One Semester = 0.5 elective credit

Fee: none

History through Film combines pop culture of American History and the advancements within the film industry to analyze some of the most important films of all time. The class begins with the beginning of film in the 1920s and 30s and continues to present day. Films showcase issues in multicultural America alongside components of economic history, geography and civics. Be ready to see film in a different light! A perfect class for those who are interested in American History, art analysis, and the art of film-making. Curriculum for this course will involve the viewing and analysis of a number of films, which are meant to represent significant events in history. The goal of this class is learning American History through watching movies and analyzing the video for historical accuracy. The films chosen for this course were selected because of their content as well as school friendliness. Unfortunately, there may still be a few parts of the films with abusive language, unruly violence, and adult situations. For that reason, a permission slip (available in class) is required.

Intro Digital Photography and Adobe Photoshop                          Course #8019

½ semester = ½ elective credit

Fee: $30

Introduces the basics of photography as well as an introduction to Adobe Photoshop. Students will utilize and apply basic methods of image capture, rendering techniques, and manipulation of images to produce a body of work to be presented as a portfolio at the end of the semester. A digital SLR is required.

Intro to Interior Design                                                                                   Course #6105

½ semester = ½ elective credit

Fee: $30

This course provides students with an introduction to the principles of housing and interior design. This course examines housing and interior decisions that individuals and families make based on their needs, the environment, and technology. Emphasis is placed on selecting goods and services and creating functional and pleasing living environments based on sound financial decisions and design principles.

J4NG Nevada is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure that Nevada’s students are set up for success and graduate work ready. JAG Specialists assigned to participating schools assist students with challenges that may be in their way and show them the way towards a bright future.

J4NG provides a multi-year model where struggling students are identified by a school team that includes an administrator, counselor and teachers. Students are presented with the opportunities provided through J4NG electives and once enrolled, have the opportunity to continue participating in the program through graduation.

J4NG courses may only be offered at a school where JAG programming is provided.

J4NG Elective G10                                                                                         Course #8424-8425
One year = 1 credit      

Employability skills class- Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates

This course prepares class participants for the workforce using Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates certified curriculum. The first semester focuses on the 37 Core Competencies of J4NG to optimize employment preparedness. The second and subsequent semester(s) build on mastery of the 37 competencies and includes instruction on Competencies 38-87. Course may include field trips, job shadowing and other employment related activities. Must be in 10^th grade.

J4NG Elective G11                                                                           Course #8426-8427                 

One year = 1 credit                  

Employability skills class- Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates

This course prepares class participants for the workforce using Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates certified curriculum. The first semester focuses on the 37 Core Competencies of J4NG to optimize employment preparedness. The second and subsequent semester(s) build on mastery of the 37 competencies and includes instruction on Competencies 38-87. Course may include field trips, job shadowing and other employment related activities. Must be in 11^th grade.

J4NG Elective G12                                                                               Course #8417-8418     
One year = 1 credit                  

Employability skills class- Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates

This course prepares class participants for the workforce using Jobs for Nevada’s Graduates certified curriculum. The first semester focuses on the 37 Core Competencies of J4NG to optimize employment preparedness. The second and subsequent semester(s) build on mastery of the 37 competencies and includes instruction on Competencies 38-87. Course may include field trips, job shadowing and other employment related activities. Must be in 12^th grade.

Journalism 1                                                                                                   Course #1409-1410

1/2 credit per semester             

Prerequisite: Strong writing, computer literacy skills

This course is designed for students interested in journalistic productions of publications.  This class teaches students a variety of multidisciplinary skills and focuses on journalistic interviewing, writing, and ethics. Students will build on their current writing skills as they gather information, analyze the information, write in a variety of journalistic styles not to mention develop vocabulary, grammar, and editing.  Students will increase their communication skills by learning interviewing techniques, working together effectively, individually, and in groups. Students will use technology while publishing the online school newspaper. Students earn elective credit for this course; it does not fulfill one of the English credits required for graduation.

Journalism II (Advanced Journalism)                                                   Course #1411-1412

1/2 credit per semester

Prerequisite:  Journalism I Strong writing and computer literacy skills with instructor approval. 

This course is designed for second-fourth year journalism students to enhance their skills required to produce a school newspaper. Students will improve their skills in writing and photography. Students will continue to utilize skills in layout and design, photo journalism, and editing. Students earn elective credit for this course; it does not fulfill one of the English credits required for graduation.

Student Leadership (Student Government)                                     Course #7201-7202

1/2 credit per semester

Pre-Requisite: Formal application and instructor approval.  Student should be planning to serve in some elected student government/student council/class officer position during the school year.  A 3.0 GPA or higher, for current fall semester and time outside of the class is required.  Enrollment is limited.

This course is very demanding.  It is designed to develop leadership skills and ability in students serving (or planning to serve) in some elected or appointed student government/student counsel class officer position during the school year.  This class helps students plan and implement school activities; develop and administer student organizational budgets; develop and use leadership skills; and to develop and use sound decision-making, problem solving, and planning skills.  Students who are elected to student body office are required to enroll in this course. Applications are available in room 201 starting in April.

Library Assistant                                                                                Course #8095-8096     

One semester = 1/2 credit

Pre-Requisite: Librarian approval (Librarian’s signature on registration form).  Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above, good attendance record and no discipline issues.  Junior or Senior standing only.

This course is designed for students wishing to work in the library as an assistant to learn (and use) library skills/research techniques, computer applications, and general library skills (checking books in/out, re-shelving books, filing, and other appropriate duties).  Good citizenship, attendance, and trustworthiness are important traits required by all students in this program.  Note:  Students who do not consistently meet the qualifications and standards of this program can be dropped from this class with possible loss of credit.

Off Campus- See Below for Specific Course Numbers by Period*

Credit:  None  

Pre-Requisite: See below

The Trustees of the Washoe County School District have established that:

1. Freshman, sophomore, and junior students must be enrolled in seven classes.
2. Senior students must be enrolled in seven classes per AB7, unless they meet exception qualifications. If a student meets exception qualifications, they must be enrolled in five classes.

When a student’s schedule indicates s/he should be off-campus, that student should be completely removed from the campus of Spanish Springs High School.  A student having off-campus privileges is asked not to report to school until ten minutes before his/her first class and is required to leave the building and grounds within ten minutes after the passing bell of his/her last scheduled class, unless approved circumstances necessitate remaining for a longer period of time. 

Seniors who choose a shortened schedule must provide the registration form signed by their parents/guardians and the Curriculum Assistant Principal prior to applying for an off-campus privilege.  The student that does not comply with the guidelines of having an off campus privilege will have it revoked.

8001-8002 1° Off Campus

8003-8004 2° Off Campus

8005-8006 3° Off Campus

8007-8008 4° Off Campus

8011-8012 5° Off Campus

8013-8014 6° Off Campus

8015-8016 7° Off Campus

*signing up for a specific Off Campus period does not guarantee that period in the student’s schedule.

Office Assistant – Career Center                                                        Course #8135-8136     

Office Assistant – Counseling                                                              Course #8125-8126     

Office Assistant - Discipline                                                                Course #8151-8152     

Office Assistant – Main                                                                       Course #8145-8146     

Credit:  ½ credit per semester

Prerequisite: Formal application (from appropriate office) and instructor approval.  Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above, good attendance record and no discipline issues.  Junior or Senior standing only.

The above office assistant positions are open to students on a very limited basis.  Students are assigned to a secretary in the main office, the counseling office or the discipline office.  Students will learn office skills, including the use of the telephone switchboard and the operation of various office machines (such as copy machines, printers, and FAX).  Students will also deliver office messages, run passes, file, sort mail, and help with greeting the public.  Confidentiality, dependability, attendance, and a pleasant personal presentation are vital for every student in this program.  Note:  Students who do not consistently meet the qualifications and standards of this program can be dropped from this class with possible loss of credit.

Office Experience (Copy Center)                                                      Course #8121-8122     

1/2 credit per semester 

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or above AND approval of instructor

Students enrolled in this class must be responsible and self-motivated.  They will learn and apply management skills to work efficiently and productively as the Office and Copy Managers.  The Copy Manager is responsible for running the Copy Center for Spanish Springs High School.  They will take, organize, process, and distribute copy orders, as well as use other forms of printing equipment.

Peer Tutor                                                                                           Course #8161-8162

1/2 credit per semester

Prerequisite: Formal application counseling or curriculum office and approval.  Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or above, good attendance record and no discipline issues.  Junior or Senior standing only.

This half credit course is for students who want to work with a specific teacher helping students in the classroom.  They also need to have passed the class in which they want to be a tutor with a “C” or above.  SSHS peer tutors work one on one with students or in a whole class situation in core academic subjects.

Personal Finance                                                                                 Course #8301     

1/2 credit = semester

This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of money management. Students will learn practical everyday concepts in a variety of financial areas. Students will develop skills working with budgets, checking accounts, taxes, credit information, insurance coverage, mortgages, and investing (mutual funds, IRA’s, CD’s, stock market). Other topics will include business commission, sales tax, markup, markdown, discounts, scams, inventory, car and mortgage loans, and many more important financial matters in order to make educated financial decisions

Concurrent Enrollment - Psychology 101                               Course #14153-14154

General Psychology

Full year = 1 Arts/Humanities credit (Advanced Dual Credit)

Fee = $110

Prerequisite: UNR prerequisites will be followed. 11th and 12th grade students only. 3.0 GPA is a minimum requirement

Can be used to satisfy the Flex credit graduation requirement.

This college course is a survey of the basic foundations of psychology with emphasis on psychological theories, research methods and principles of behavior. Expectations for this course are determined by the partner University/College. To be enrolled in the class, students must maintain consistent attendance.

Concurrent enrollment courses require students to be registered with UNR and pay associated fees. Current concurrent enrollment course fee is $110 each semester  and must be paid within the first two weeks of school or student will be moved to another course. 

Speech and Debate                                                                                          Course #6411-6412

Full year = 1 credit       

Fee: $50 + Tournament and Transportation Fees*  

This course will provide students with basic knowledge of debate theory and technique and instruction in public and competitive speaking. The course will include instruction in ten types of formal speeches, three categories of debate, and Student Congress. Students will review and analyze famous speeches of the past, as well as write and analyze speeches of today. Participation in speech and debate tournaments outside of school hours, approximately four per semester are required. Course goals: Students will develop knowledge of debate theory and speaking ability which will allow them to compete in interscholastic competition. Students will learn logical structure, reasoning, and analysis of argumentation. 

Speech and Debate                                                                             Course #6411-6412

Full year = 1 credit       

Fee: $50 + Tournament and Transportation Fees*  

This advanced course in speech and debate will focus on performance skills and research skills for competitive speakers. Instruction will include advanced case analysis, video critique, extensive research skills, constitutional issues, and analysis of famous speeches. Students must have adequate time for research in local libraries and have superior writing and reading skills. Participation in extra-curricular speaking events is required.

Yearbook                                                                                                  Course #1403-1404

Full year = 1 credit (repeatable)

This full-year course is designed for the student who is interested in the development of the school yearbook. Students enrolled in this course will be required to learn and take an active part in design, photography, business management, advertisement sales, and computer techniques. Skills include planning, organizing, producing page layouts, writing copy, meeting deadlines, using the computer for yearbook design, and a willingness to work after school and some weekends in order to meet deadlines.